BARCELONA superstar Lionel Messi's life story is set to hit cinemas in time for the 2014 World Cup.

Epic Pictures Group says it is financing and developing a Rocky-style film after buying the rights to dramatize a biography about the Argentinian footballing genius.

The Beverly Hills-based company says the biopic will chart Messi's rise from a modest background in Argentina and how he "overcame his physical shortcomings to become one of the greatest players of all time."

Co-founder Shaked Berenson hopes "audiences will be uplifted by this incredible tale of fighting for your dreams."